Dallas Cowboys first-round pick Caleb Downs has yet to play an NFL snap, but the Cowboys' rookie safety is already earning the trust of pass rusher Rashan Gary and veteran teammates ahead of the 2026 season.

During a guest appearance on the Good Morning Football podcast by the NFL Network, Gary gave a bold assessment of Downs and expressed confidence in the rookie’s play-making ability.

“It's early, but he's a pro's pro. From how he takes notes to the meeting, to how he asks his questions, to how he wants to be on top of the details, and having a young guy also try to bring guys along," Gary said on the Good Morning Football show on June 9.

Gary believes Downs' leadership can elevate the Cowboys' defense.

"So just him being a natural leader man, he's a great guy," Gary said on the Good Morning Football show. "And I just can't wait for him to keep on growing and striving because we are going to need him”

The Cowboys drafted Downs in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft (No. 11), and the rookie has been gaining huge praise from veterans of the team and the coaching staff.

Downs is expected to play as a nickel player (slot corner) or box safety, utilizing his abilities to cover slot receivers and versatility to adapt to multiple fronts.

With early praise and expectations, Downs is expected to be a cornerstone of the Cowboys' defense under Christian Parker's new defensive scheme.

As Downs is new in the Cowboys camp, he has already found a mentor.

P.J. Locke embraces mentor role for Cowboys rookie Caleb Downs

Veteran safety P.J. Locke has embraced the role of being a mentor to Downs and has strengthened their connection through extra reps after practice.

"Me and Caleb have grown to have a relationship now," Locke said, per Tommy Yarrish of DallasCowboys.com. "Every day after practice, we're getting extra work."

Locke explained that the extra reps are part of a larger mindset he's trying to instill.

"I made a comment saying, 'We've got to deposit money every single day.' We don't know the price of a championship or that game that really matters for us to get into the playoffs or whatever the case may be," Locke added.

Locke's endorsement highlights the expectations surrounding Downs, with the rookie already viewed as a potential game-changer for the Cowboys' defense.

The Cowboys have been encouraged by what they've seen from Downs during OTAs and minicamp, as HC Brian Schottenheimer noted that he "doesn't make the same mistake twice."

Share your thoughts on Gary's take on Downs.

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Written by

Archana Ramakrishnan

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar